Ridgewood clinic brings basketball to children with developmental disabilities
By Joshua Lee - QNS.com
Participants sharpened their dribbling, passing, and shooting skills as Take Heart Foundation and Hot Shots Basketball partnered to launch an inaugural basketball clinic for children with developmental disabilities at PS 88Q in Ridgewood on May 30.
Frank Sardinas, owner of Hot Shots Basketball, along with his coaching staff, guided participants through two 60-minute sessions focused on core basketball skills and confidence. The event was designed to expand access to training and guidance for aspiring young athletes — from kindergarten through eighth grade — bringing together children, licensed disability specialists, and coaches.
“Frank Sardinas and his staff were amazing,” said Graceann Faulkner, vice chair of the Take Heart Foundation. “They were so supportive of these children and made a lifelong impact on everyone in attendance.”
In an effort to open doors for student-athletes, the initiative allows Take Heart to sponsor full enrollment to a select group of participants.
The Take Heart Foundation is a Queens-based nonprofit organization that integrates after-school sports and community-based programs to help children with special needs. Its founders, Eric and Graceann Faulkner, founded the foundation based on their experience raising their daughter, Christina, who has Down syndrome.
Looking ahead, the foundation aims to build on the Hot Shots Basketball Clinic and host more inclusive athletic and mentorship programs through community-driven initiatives.
Council Member Phil Wong praised the Take Heart Foundation, Hot Shots Basketball, community volunteers and participating families for their roles in organizing the event and their ongoing commitment to assisting children with developmental disabilities throughout Queens.
“Organizations like the Take Heart Foundation make a real difference in the lives of children and families throughout our community,” said Wong. “Their work goes far beyond a single event. Through sports and community programs, they are creating opportunities for children with developmental disabilities to grow, learn new skills, and reach their full potential.”